in a desperate state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a desperate state" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is experiencing extreme distress or urgency in a situation. Example: "After losing his job and facing mounting bills, he found himself in a desperate state, searching for any opportunity to turn his life around."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Agriculture is in a desperate state.

The Economist

"So these people are in a desperate state".

The New York Times

Before the transplant, they found, her gut flora was in a desperate state.

The New York Times

After nearly five years of civilian rule, the country is in a desperate state.

The Economist

Much maligned and rarely praised, they are in a desperate state.

Independent

THE international effort to rebuild Afghanistan is in a desperate state.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Not even the Football Association, whose chairman Greg Dyke said in 2016 that English football was in such a desperate state that no one should dream of any real success until the 2022 World Cup, at the earliest.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are not interested in taking money from Ethiopia when it is in such a desperate state of human need," he said.

The Guardian

The animal was in such a desperate state that it seemed it might kill itself in the next few minutes by lodging the pole between trees and breaking its leg or neck.

The New York Times - Travel

The argument about Derbyshire has only arisen because English local government is in such a desperate state.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet, in somewhat of a desperate state, we see more and more lowest common denominator shows.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more precise language if possible to specify what kind of "desperate state" is intended. Is it financial, emotional, or physical? Clarity strengthens the writing.

Common error

A common mistake is using "in a desperate state" without providing sufficient context. Readers may not fully grasp the severity or nature of the situation if it's not clearly explained. Instead of just stating that someone is "in a desperate state", describe the circumstances that led to it and the potential consequences if the situation doesn't improve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a desperate state" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its condition. It indicates that the subject is experiencing extreme difficulty, urgency, or distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a valid and readily usable expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a desperate state" is a common and grammatically correct adjectival phrase used to describe situations or individuals facing extreme difficulty or crisis. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage. Predominantly found in news and media, it conveys urgency and severity. To maximize impact, contextual details should be provided. While there are alternative phrases, the choice depends on the specific shade of meaning desired. Overall, understanding the contexts and nuances allows writers to use the phrase effectively and avoid overuse. According to the Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In dire straits

This phrase implies a situation of extreme difficulty or danger, similar to being in a desperate state.

In a critical condition

Focuses more on the severity of a situation, often related to health or stability.

In a precarious situation

Suggests instability and risk, highlighting the uncertainty of the state.

In a tight corner

Emphasizes confinement and difficulty escaping a problem.

On the brink

Indicates being close to a negative outcome or collapse.

At wit's end

Focuses on the feeling of helplessness and lack of solutions.

Facing a crisis

Highlights the presence of a significant and urgent problem.

Up against it

Implies facing strong opposition or challenges.

In extremis

A more formal term indicating the point of death or extreme need.

In deep water

Suggests being involved in serious trouble or difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "in a desperate state" in a sentence?

You can use "in a desperate state" to describe a person, situation, or entity facing extreme difficulty or crisis. For example: "The refugees arrived "in a desperate state", needing immediate medical attention."

What are some alternatives to "in a desperate state"?

Alternatives include "in dire straits", "in a critical condition", or "facing a crisis", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "in a desperate state"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "in a desperate state" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "in a desperate state" when you want to emphasize the severity and urgency of a situation, highlighting that immediate action is needed. Ensure the context supports the use of such a strong phrase.